History of Groundwork Richmond:
About Groundwork Richmond
Founded in 2010, Groundwork Richmond is proud to be the twentieth local "trust" affiliate of Groundwork USA, a national network dedicated to transforming communities through environmental action.
As part of this larger movement, we operate independently—designed and led by the Richmond community to address local needs while sharing knowledge and expertise across the Groundwork network. Our work is rooted in collaboration, sustainability, and community-driven change.
We fully embrace the mission of Groundwork USA, adapting it to benefit Richmond by creating greener spaces, empowering youth, and fostering environmental stewardship. Together, we are building a healthier, more vibrant future for our city! 🌿💚
Founded in 2010, Groundwork Richmond is proud to be the twentieth local "trust" affiliate of Groundwork USA, a national network dedicated to transforming communities through environmental action.
As part of this larger movement, we operate independently—designed and led by the Richmond community to address local needs while sharing knowledge and expertise across the Groundwork network. Our work is rooted in collaboration, sustainability, and community-driven change.
We fully embrace the mission of Groundwork USA, adapting it to benefit Richmond by creating greener spaces, empowering youth, and fostering environmental stewardship. Together, we are building a healthier, more vibrant future for our city! 🌿💚
Why Richmond?
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Why Expanding Richmond’s Urban Canopy Matters Richmond sits at the heart of an industrial hub, surrounded by five oil refineries, two major freeways, railroad lines, and ports. As a result, the city experiences some of the worst air pollution in California, with dangerously high levels of nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter. 🌿 The Impact on Our Community - Richmond’s children are twice as likely to develop asthma compared to neighboring cities (UCSF study). - Neighborhoods with fewer trees experience greater physical and mental health challenges. - Richmond’s urban tree canopy coverage is only 12.7%—far below the recommended 25-35% for cities in the Southwest and dry West. 🌳 How More Trees Can Make a Difference By increasing Richmond’s urban canopy, we can: - Improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions - Provide cooler, safer outdoor spaces by reducing the urban heat island effect - Create more equitable access to green spaces for historically underserved neighborhoods Due to systemic disinvestment, certain Richmond communities have been left behind when it comes to green infrastructure. By prioritizing tree planting in these areas, we can help create a healthier, more sustainable city for everyone. Join us in making Richmond greener, healthier, and more resilient! |
The map above from CalEnviron shows how impacted by asthma Richmond residents are in comparison to affluent cities, such as San Rafael.
The map above from CalEnviron shows the concentration of particulate matter in Richmond in comparison to San Rafael.
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